Natural, long-lasting reconstruction for women who have experienced implant complications.
Restore Comfort, Confidence, and Natural Results — Without Implants
Many women undergo breast reconstruction with implants after mastectomy. But over time, implants may cause pain, tightness, distortion, or simply stop feeling like the right fit. For others, radiation or repeated revisions make implants difficult or unsafe to maintain.
If you are frustrated with your implants — or dealing with complications — an implant-to-DIEP flap conversion may be the solution you’ve been looking for.
At CABR, we are the only dedicated microsurgical practice in Hampton Roads specializing in natural, autologous reconstruction using your own tissue. We have extensive experience helping women transition away from implants and toward a more stable, natural reconstruction.
You are not alone. Most women who seek implant-to-DIEP revision do so because of:
This is one of the most common implant complications.
Scar tissue forms around the implant, leading to:
Radiation dramatically increases the risk of capsular contracture.
Implants have a finite lifespan. Ruptures can be silent or obvious, and replacements may be needed every 10–15 years.
Implants can shift or bottom-out, causing:
Many women undergo multiple surgeries to maintain their implants — something they didn’t anticipate.
Infections around implants often require implant removal and alternative reconstruction.
Radiation stiffens tissues, making implant reconstruction difficult and often painful.
DIEP flap reconstruction is much more reliable post-radiation.
Some women simply no longer want implants. They want their reconstruction to feel like them.
Implants require ongoing monitoring, maintenance, and potential replacements.
Natural tissue does not.
If you relate to any of these experiences, DIEP flap conversion may be the best long-term option.
DIEP flap conversion is a procedure where your implants are removed and replaced with your own tissue from the lower abdomen.
During the procedure:
This offers a permanent, living reconstruction that adapts to your body over time.
Implant reconstruction is a reasonable first step for many women — especially if implants are placed during their mastectomy. But long-term satisfaction rates decline over time because of:
DIEP provides a natural, durable alternative
Benefits include:
Women consistently report feeling more “whole,” more comfortable, and more confident with natural-tissue reconstruction.
You should consider a consultation if you are experiencing:
You deserve to feel comfortable in your own body — without constant worry or pain.
DIEP flap reconstruction — especially after implant complications — requires advanced expertise that only microsurgeons provide. CABR is the only dedicated DIEP team in the region.
We routinely treat:
If other surgeons have told you there are “no options,” you may still be a candidate when evaluated by a reconstructive microsurgeon.
Unlike implants, your tissue:
Your DIEP revision will be coordinated with your entire care team.
We support you through every stage, including:
Scar revision
Your surgeon reviews:
If needed, we perform a CT angiogram to map abdominal perforators.
Based on anatomy and history, we discuss:
You will receive a detailed, personalized plan.
Typical steps include:
Most surgeries take:
Your flap is closely monitored using specialized equipment to ensure strong blood flow.
You will begin walking early, and our reconstructive team will guide you through pain management, mobility, and incision care.
During the first weeks at home, you will gradually resume:
By 6–8 weeks, most normal activities are restored.
These may include:
Not all patients require refinement — this depends on your goals.
Yes. Radiation significantly increases implant failure rates.
DIEP is widely considered the most reliable solution for radiated tissue.
Yes. Many women undergo one-stage implant removal + DIEP reconstruction
This is common, and often still compatible with DIEP.
Your surgeon will evaluate scar patterns and blood supply.
No — DIEP preserves the abdominal muscle.
In most cases, yes — the implant is removed at the start of the procedure.
Most women experience improvement similar to a tummy tuck.
Yes.
The Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act requires insurers to cover:
Coverage applies whether your original reconstruction was years or even decades ago.
Many women are told to “just replace the implant.”
But revision surgeries often lead to repeat complications — especially after radiation.
This is why more and more women are transitioning from implant reconstruction to natural tissue.
Reach out to our office today using this form, or give us a call to schedule your consultation. We’re excited to partner with you on your healing journey.
Dr. Jablonka is hands down the absolute best doctor I’ve ever had. He is caring, compassionate and really takes his time with his patients. I had complicated breast reconstruction surgery after a double mastectomy. And of course I had complications while recuperating. So it required a couple more surgeries. Dr. Jablonka did an amazing job and was right by my side the entire time. He is a very skilled plastic surgeon. I highly, highly recommend. I give him 10 stars out of 5!!!
Dr. Jablonka is an amazing surgeon. During my consultation for DIEP I knew within minutes that he was the surgeon for me. Not only did he have all the education and experience he was also very easy to talk to and took the time to thoroughly explain the procedure and answer all of my questions. Listening to him explain the DIEP flap procedure I instantly knew that not only was this his profession, but truly his passion. I am now almost 3 months post-op and so happy with my results. My breasts look natural and they are made with my tissue. I am beyond grateful to Dr. Jablonka and his incredible team for making one of the most challenging things I’ve ever done so much easier. If you have to have breast reconstruction for preventative reasons or because of a breast cancer diagnosis I highly recommend Dr. Jablonka.
Dr Jablonka is a phenomenal surgeon and he truly cares for his patients. I had a breast reconstruction with DIEP flap post prophylactic double mastectomy from 12 years prior. He removed the old implants using my own fat and placing them above the pectoral muscle not under like before. The look and the feel is so natural. I don’t have that constant tightness and hardness in my breasts. I feel and look normal again. He has been very kind throughout the process. He explained everything patiently every time. His staff Elizabeth and his nurse Stephanie were always there for me as well helping every step of the way. The front desk receptionist (I can’t recall her name) and every one else there that I came in contact with was kind polite and attentive. Everybody at the office took great care of me. I thank you all from the bottom of my heart!
Being diagnosed with breast cancer at 37 was H.A.R.D. Having a double mastectomy burned even more. Losing one expander and being flat for months was the icing on the cake. Then I was referred to Dr. Jablonka as a DIEP Flap candidate. I knew from the first time I met Dr. Jablonka that he was amazing. He was very thorough and took all the time in the world to explain to myself and to my husband what the process would be and answered all of our questions. His staff is top notch and just as sweet as they come. There are no words to adequately express my sincere gratitude to Dr. Jablonka and his team for giving me confidence back and making me a proud survivor!
If you’re dealing with pain, discomfort, or dissatisfaction with your implant reconstruction, you deserve real solutions — not temporary fixes.
DIEP flap conversion offers a softer, more natural, and more reliable long-term option.
Our microsurgical team is here to help you understand your options and feel confident in your next steps.
There aren't enough good words to describe Dr. Jablonka. He's the absolute best. He's kind, caring, and talented. I came to him broken after my double mastectomy reconstruction was a bust. He put me back together. Brought back my self-esteem. Gave me my life back. Love, love, love him and his amazing support staff.